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5 Picks for Baby's First Toys
Toys for babies are more exciting than ever. And
the best toys are not just fun, they stimulate
discovery and encourage important skills like
hand-eye coordination. So with all the colorful
buzzes, whizzes and whirls you'll find in the
toy aisle these days, how do you figure out what's
best for your baby's first toys? Here are some
favorites:
1.) Crib-Gym
A crib gym is attached firmly to the crib and
hangs within the baby's reach. It usually has
fascinating baby gadgets-perhaps a big ball with
bright smaller balls tumbling inside, colorful
knobs to spin & grasp, and a squeaky bulb
to squeeze. At first your baby may just look,
but it won't take long for her to reach, touch,
pull, turn and play-all great skills for discovering
and exploring her world.
Special Safety Note: Make certain that the crib
gym you buy is sturdy, has no parts that could
be pulled off and swallowed, and no hanging cords
that could get wrapped around the baby's neck.
2.) Rattles
The classic baby rattle is still one of the best
toys for a new baby. From very early on, a child
can grasp it firmly, explore it with her mouth,
and best of all, shake it and make a satisfying
noise. A cloth rattle is another good idea-it's
soft for baby fun.
3.) Stuffed Toys
Small stuffed animals to hold and HUG are just
the thing for young babies. Squeeze toys have
the added surprise of noise, and are fun to handle,
too. Or try a soft stuffed ball-some have chimes
inside that jingle when the ball rolls.
4.) Bath
Toys Bath toys such as rubber duckies, toy boats
and funnels to dip into the water may be your
baby's favorites (and bonus-they make bathtime
so much fun!).
5.) Books
It's never too soon to expose your child to the
magic of books and reading. Even before they can
understand the words and stories, the colorful
illustrations and the soothing sound of your voice
as you read will comfort and start language and
learning skills. First Lady Laura Bush has promoted
books for babies throughout the US — so important,
she says that doctors should prescribe books for
new babies!
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